Gonarezhou National Park

Exploring the Beauty of Gonarezhou National Park in Zimbabwe

Overview

Gonarezhou National Park is a stunning destination in southeastern Zimbabwe that covers over 5,000 square kilometers. The park is part of the Great Limpopo Transfrontier Park and is home to a diverse range of wildlife and plant species. With its rugged terrain, winding rivers, and semi-arid climate, Gonarezhou National Park offers visitors a breathtaking experience. The park is home to elephants, lions, leopards, cheetahs, wild dogs, and over 500 bird species, making it a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts and birdwatchers alike. Visitors can enjoy game drives, birdwatching, and hiking, among other activities. The park also offers a range of accommodation options, from camping to luxury lodges, to suit all budgets. Whether you’re a nature lover, adventure seeker, or simply seeking to experience the beauty of Africa, Gonarezhou National Park is a must-visit destination.

Things to Do

Game drives: One of the best ways to explore the park is on a game drive. This is a guided tour that takes you through the park in a 4×4 vehicle, allowing you to get up close and personal with the park’s incredible wildlife. You can expect to see elephants, lions, leopards, buffalo, and many other fascinating species.

Bush walks: If you’re looking for a more immersive experience, consider taking a bush walk. This is a guided tour that takes you through the park on foot, allowing you to get even closer to the wildlife and experience the park’s natural beauty up close.

Bird watching: Gonarezhou National Park is home to a diverse range of birdlife, making it a paradise for bird watchers. You can expect to see everything from eagles and vultures to colorful kingfishers and bee-eaters.

Fishing: The park is also home to a number of rivers and waterways, which offer excellent fishing opportunities. You can expect to catch a range of fish species, including bream, tigerfish, and catfish.

Sundowners: As the sun begins to set over the park, many visitors choose to relax and enjoy a sundowner. This is a traditional African experience where you enjoy a drink and snacks while watching the sunset over the park’s stunning landscape.

What to See

The Chilojo Cliffs: These majestic cliffs are a must-see when visiting Gonarezhou National Park. They offer a breathtaking view of the Runde River and the surrounding landscape. The cliffs are also home to a variety of bird species and wildlife, including baboons and kudus.

The Mahenye Sand Forest: This unique forest is a rare find in Africa and is home to a variety of plant and animal species. Take a guided tour through the forest and learn about the fascinating ecosystem that exists within it.

The Chiredzi River: The Chiredzi River is a great spot for fishing, bird watching, and game viewing. It is also a popular spot for picnics and camping.

The Gonarezhou Wilderness Area: This area is home to some of the park’s most diverse wildlife, including elephants, lions, and leopards. Take a guided tour through the area and witness these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.

The Chipinda Pools: These natural pools are a great spot for swimming and relaxing. They are also home to a variety of fish species and birdlife.

The Mabalauta Loop: This scenic drive offers stunning views of the park’s landscapes and wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled for elephants, giraffes, and zebras along the way.

The Crocodile Pool: This pool is home to a large population of crocodiles and is a fascinating spot for wildlife enthusiasts. Take a guided tour to learn about these incredible creatures and their behavior

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Gonarezhou National Park is from May to September, during the dry season when the vegetation is low, and the animals gather around water sources. During your visit, you’ll have the chance to spot a variety of animals, including big cats, elephants, and rhinos.

Getting there

By Road: The park is located in the southeastern part of Zimbabwe, and the easiest way to get there is by road. The park is accessible from the town of Chiredzi, which is located about 75 kilometers away. From Chiredzi, you can take a dirt road that leads directly to the park’s entrance.

By Air: If you prefer to travel by air, you can fly into the nearby Buffalo Range Airport, which is located about 30 kilometers from the park. The airport has daily flights from Harare and other major cities in Zimbabwe.

Once you arrive, you can hire a car or take a taxi to the park’s entrance. The drive takes about an hour, and you’ll pass through some of the most beautiful scenery in Zimbabwe.

Where to Stay

Mid-Range Accommodation:

Chilo Gorge Safari Lodge

Chilo Gorge Safari Lodge offers comfortable mid-range accommodation with stunning views of the Save River and the surrounding wilderness. The lodge features spacious rooms with en-suite bathrooms, a restaurant serving delicious meals, and a swimming pool. Guests can enjoy guided safaris, nature walks, and cultural experiences.

Gonarezhou Bush Camp

Located in a secluded area of the park, Gonarezhou Bush Camp offers a rustic yet comfortable stay. The camp features tented accommodation with shared bathroom facilities. Guests can enjoy guided walks, game drives, and bird watching. The camp’s remote location provides a truly immersive wilderness experience.

The Hide Safari Camp

Situated near the park’s entrance, The Hide Safari Camp offers mid-range accommodation in luxurious tents. The camp features en-suite bathrooms, a dining area serving gourmet meals, and a swimming pool. Guests can enjoy guided safaris, bush walks, and bird watching. The camp’s location allows for easy access to the park’s attractions.

Luxury Accommodation:

Chilo Gorge Tented Camp

Chilo Gorge Tented Camp offers luxurious tented accommodation with breathtaking views of the Save River. The camp features spacious tents with en-suite bathrooms, a dining area serving gourmet cuisine, and a swimming pool. Guests can enjoy guided safaris, boat cruises, and cultural experiences. The camp’s tranquil setting provides a truly luxurious safari experience.

Singita Pamushana Lodge

Singita Pamushana Lodge offers exclusive luxury accommodation in a stunning setting overlooking Malilangwe Lake. The lodge features elegant suites with private plunge pools, a restaurant serving gourmet meals, and a spa offering a range of treatments. Guests can enjoy guided safaris, boat cruises, and cultural experiences. The lodge’s conservation efforts and community initiatives add to the overall experience.

Chilo Gorge Chalala

Chilo Gorge Chalala offers luxury tented accommodation on the banks of the Runde River. The camp features spacious tents with en-suite bathrooms, a dining area serving gourmet meals, and a swimming pool. Guests can enjoy guided safaris, bird watching, and cultural experiences. The camp’s location allows for a peaceful and luxurious safari experience.